SMU-TCU Week: Wednesday practice notes

SMU was back on the practice field on Wednesday to prepare for TCU on Saturday. Here are some of the takeaways from practice for the Mustangs.

*** SMU continued to go through its usual practice routine preparing for the Horned Frogs. Running back Tyler Lavine said there’s a little more fire this week around the program, but channeling passion versus emotion is key when it comes to a rivalry game. It’s Lavine’s last Iron Skillet and he’s hoping to go out with a win — no matter his role.

*** On the injury front, wide receiver Teddy Knox and running back LJ Johnson were both seen working off to the side of practice. Knox has been one of the key special teamers for SMU while Johnson is heavily involved in the rotation. It’s unclear what happened to Knox, but Johnson got nicked up early against Prairie View A&M. If he can’t go, the Mustangs will lean more on guys like Jaylan Knighton, Camar Wheaton, Velton Gardner and Lavine.

*** Offensive lineman Justin Osborne is someone we’re watching closely to see if he’ll be able to play on Saturday. He’s got a heavy tape job on his ankle, but did look like he moved around better on Wednesday than on Tuesday. He’s a key piece to the SMU offensive line and sat out last week’s win over Prairie View A&M. Lashlee called him a gametime decision for the TCU game, which lines up with what you see on the field. He could gut it out and practicing is a good sign, but you just won’t know until kickoff.

*** On the flip side, nickelback Brandon Crossley is expected back and is practicing this week with a red jersey on. The multi-year starter for SMU was held out of the Prairie View A&M game last weekend. It was more so precautionary, but that’ll allow him to play against the Horned Frogs on Saturday. That means the secondary will be at full health for a deep TCU wideout group.

*** SMU’s defensive line is healthy, which is important. The Mustangs are still missing Stephon Wright, but the main core is out there going through practice without limitations, which is always good to see as guys sustain nicks and bruises throughout the season. Against a TCU offensive line that is a veteran group, but also susceptible to some pressure being allowed, that group will be pivotal this weekend.

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